Clear-Com FreeSpeak Cell Tested on 5G Network

Clear-Com announced that its FreeSpeak Cell wireless intercom technology has successfully completed testing during a live production deployment by RTL Deutschland at Germany's Nürburgring race circuit, marking a significant step in the use of cellular-based communications for broadcast operations.

The deployment tested FreeSpeak Cell's ability to deliver reliable, low-latency communications across both private and public 5G networks in a complex live-event environment. Conducted in partnership with RTL Deutschland and supported by Deutsche Telekom’s 5G connectivity expertise, the proof-of-concept project demonstrated how existing 5G infrastructure can be used to expand communications coverage across large production spaces.

According to the companies, the test integrated with RTL Deutschland’s established communications setup and delivered stable connectivity across areas that would normally require additional infrastructure or multiple DECT antennas.

The deployment enabled RTL to maintain communications coverage across nearly the entire Nürburgring Grand Prix circuit, including the paddock and additional production zones such as Hatzenbach. The project also highlighted the potential advantages of using cellular networks to support highly mobile teams and distributed production workflows in demanding live-event settings.

The test delivered several key outcomes, including successful operation across both private campus and public 5G networks, expanded communications coverage using existing 5G infrastructure, integration with RTL’s existing workflows, and validation of cellular-based intercom technology in live production environments.

"For us at RTL, the flexibility of our production workflows is one of our top priorities," said Jens Schilder, Project-Engineer at RTL Deutschland. "The successful test at the Nürburgring proves that integrating intercom solutions into 5G infrastructures efficiently bridges the last mile of wireless communication. Thanks to FreeSpeak Cell technology, we were able to ensure stable communications coverage across almost the entire Grand Prix circuit, the paddock, and additional production areas without relying on complex infrastructure. This is a decisive step toward fully mobile remote productions that demand the highest standards of latency and reliability."

Clear-Com said the results demonstrate growing opportunities for broadcasters and live-event producers seeking scalable communications solutions with lower infrastructure requirements.

“The partnership with RTL Deutschland shows our commitment to implementing innovative solutions directly in real-world applications,” said Alex Hemme, Sales Manager DACH at Clear-Com. “The market demands scalable systems that reduce operating costs while increasing freedom of movement for production teams. FreeSpeak Cell delivers exactly that kind of flexibility and investment security. Demonstrating these capabilities under the demanding conditions of the Nürburgring sends a strong signal to the entire broadcast industry.”

FreeSpeak Cell extends the broader FreeSpeak wireless intercom ecosystem by using IP and cellular networks to support mobile and distributed production environments. The technology is designed to help broadcasters and media organizations simplify deployment while maintaining professional-grade communications performance.

clearcom.com